Our Summer 2024 Reading List

Pete
This summer I’ve been reading “The Rest is Noise” by Alex Ross, the music critic of The New Yorker magazine.  I’m not a huge classical music fan, having been raised on big band jazz and classic rock, which evolved into a deep love of live contemporary music of all shapes and sizes.  Visits to the symphony often required a strong cup of coffee or an early  exit.  I hope reading this book has changed this attitude forever.  Alex Ross does an amazing job of bringing to life the personalities, political movements and events that drove the evolution of classical music over the past century.   The humble beginnings, the affairs, the schisms, the religious conversions, the wars, the rise and fall of all the various -isms, all through the lens of classical music.  Fascinating.  https://www.therestisnoise.com/

John
A Place Called Freedom by Ken Follet
A Place Called Freedom is a work of historical fiction by Ken Follett. Set in 1767, it follows the adventures of an idealistic young coal miner from Scotland who believes there must be more to life than working down the pit. The miner, Malachi (Mack) McAsh, eventually runs away in order to find work and a new life in London. Eventually McAsh becomes a leader amongst the working classes of the city and becomes a target for those vested interest groups who do not share his point of view. McAsh is framed for a crime he did not commit and sent to serve seven years hard labour in the Colony of Virginia where he is forced to find a new life.

Calvin
I am currently halfway through The Last Juror by John Grisham. It’s a gripping legal thriller about a  murderer who threatens revenge against his jurors if they convict him. Nevertheless, they find him guilty and he's sentenced to life imprisonment; but nine years later he's on parole and out for vengeance!

Marc
I am currently reading Football Done Right by Micheal Lombardi, a former general manager of the Cleveland Browns. He looks at football’s past and how it integrates itself with the current game. Ideas and concepts that fans take for granted like the forward pass, game film and kickers (yes Kickers) are all explored. He names who should be in the hall of fame but never got their due and those player who should not be in Canton.  If you love the history of the game as well as the politics and decision making that goes into the making of a successful team I would highly recommend this book.

Thomas

I am currently reading "The Innovator's Solution" by Clayton Christensen and Michael E. Raynor. This seminal work builds on Christensen's concept of disruptive innovation and provides a comprehensive framework for companies to achieve and sustain profitable growth. The authors argue that innovation is more predictable than many believe, offering managers valuable guidance on making informed business decisions and creating the right conditions for successful growth. They outline actionable strategies for both startups and established firms to systemically cultivate disruptive innovation and avoid falling victim to it. I particularly enjoy their writing style, as they present their ideas clearly and effectively, using real-world examples and extensive research to illustrate their points.

Lorena
I just finished Three by Valerie Perrin. The book tells the story of three childhood friends over thrity years. Starting in the 1980s in a small french town. Perrin blends mystery, drama and nostalgia, exploring friendship, love and time. Her deep characters and emotional storytelling make it a gripping read. I highly recommend this book for its immersive and touching narrative.

 

Our Summer 2024 Playlist

Pete
The really cool part about https://www.therestisnoise.com/ is that it comes along with its own author-curated playlist, so you can listen along while you read.  Here are the links on Spotify and it’s also available on Alex Ross’ website and blog.   If you really want to deep dive the website has it broken down by chapters with musical notations, samples and comments here.

John
On Spotify listening to: Country Mix,Sexy Jazz-Sunny Side Up and Comporta Café.

Calvin
All about country music in the summer! Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Zac Brown Band, and even Post Malone is now jumping on the country train!

Marc
I have been playing on a loop Man with No Door by Kes. Kes is one the most prominent Trinidad musical artist who has taken a massive step forward onto the world’s stage in the past two years. I also stumbled onto an amazing  podcast called American Scandal which goes explores the biggest scandals of it’s time. Last week I finished a four part series on Jim and Tammy Baker and currently listening the history and fall from the  Teapot Dome scandal.

Thomas

I have been listening to Scott Galloway’s newsletter, "No Mercy, No Malice." The NYU business professor analyzes issues within the American economy, government, and culture, offering his insights and solutions. I particularly enjoyed his piece, "War on the Young," where he highlights policies that are contributing to an unprecedented transfer of wealth from the young to the old. This shift is severely impacting the economic future and opportunities of younger generations. For instance, in 1985, the federal government spent three times more per capita on seniors than on children. By 2019, that ratio had risen to eight times. https://www.profgalloway.com/war-on-the-young/

Lorena
This summer I decided to learn French, so I've been listening to the InnerFrench podcast. It's been great, so if you're interested in learning or just practicing some French, I definitely recommend it. Music-wise, I have been listening to Gracie Abrams’ new album called “The Secret of Us” on repeat.

 

Our Summer 2024 Activity List

Pete
As you can probably infer from my choices above, I dabble in music when I have the free time to do so.  My favourite creative outlet for the past few years has been the Teenage Engineering Op-1.  It has a steep learning curve but it has a cool design which makes it both fun and incredibly adaptable once you get the hang of it. 

John
Being active but being active outside rather than gym: Hiking, Biking, Golfing, tennis and swimming.

Calvin
In may, I ran my first ever half-marathon with a time of 1 hour 43 minutes. I’m hooked. Just a few days after I proceeded to buy a road bike and 3 weeks later raced in the milton triathalon finishing in just under 2 hours. I’ve since had some nagging injuries keeping me off my feet but hope to get back in peak form for Toronto’s waterfront marathon in October!

Marc
I plan my summer calendar in the winter as I love attending festivals across the city.  There are too many to list but here is a sample: Spring into Spice, Toronto Carnival, Afrofest, Salsa on Front, Latin Jazzfest, the Cook Out, Beerfest, Winefest and Rumfest to name a few.  Throw in a few concerts and Caribbean parties and as my uncle once said: “no rest  for the wicked.”

Thomas

This summer, I will be travelling to Brazil with my family and girlfriend. We will spend time in Rio, where my mother was born, and Buzios, a charming beach town located just north of Rio. I am particularly excited to share Rio’s breathtaking beauty with my girlfriend. When I visit, I love to explore the botanical gardens by my grandmother’s apartment and swim at Praia do Arpoador with gorgeous views of Morro Dois Irmãos.

Lorena
This summer I decided to focus on my studies, in addition to French I'm taking the Canadian Securities Course and I have exams coming up soon. But whenever I can, I spend time by the lake, soaking up as much sun as possible.